ZF Friedrichshafen is to supply its 8-speed plug-in hybrid transmission to Fiat Chrysler Automobiles, powering the all-new Jeep Wrangler 4xe. The latest version of ZF’s 8-speed features a compact electric motor with a peak output of up to 100 kilowatts and 245 Newton Metres of torque.
ZF offers hybrid technology in a modular kit to meet various customer requirements. Plug-in hybrids combine the range of a combustion engine for longer trips with an emission-free electric drive for city driving and shorter trips.
“The Jeep Wrangler is an iconic vehicle and to be part of the first plug-in Wrangler is symbolic of where the industry and ZF are headed,” explained Stephan von Schuckmann, head of ZF Car Powertrain Technology Division. “We believe plug-in-technology is a good solution for customers in the near-to-midterm, and we are committed to mobility that generates considerably less CO2, with the long-term goal of zero emissions."
ZF produces a full range of driveline technologies from highly efficient transmissions to plug-in hybrids and full electrics and recently made a commitment that it will no longer invest in automatic transmissions that are not hybrid-ready, further underscoring the company’s commitment to electric mobility.
Since 2009, ZF has produced approximately 22.5 million 8-speed transmissions for customers around the world. Production of the 8-speed plug-in is currently underway at ZF's production facility in Saarbrucken, Germany.